CFOC Announces Start of Awards Cycles

SPRINGFIELD—Executive Director Jeff Katz has announced that there is $100,000.00 in available funding for the spring 2024 awards cycle offered by the Community Foundation of Otsego County. The two largest categories are food insecurity and cemetery restoration.

According to a press release, a total of $50,000.00 has been allocated to support programs dedicated to meeting the growing challenges of food insecurity in Otsego County. CFOC seeks to support programs that demonstrate collaboration among nonprofits, improve delivery systems to families in need, provide transportation to or from food pantries and other providers, focus on new healthy eating programs, or offer education and training for those involved in providing food options. There is no minimum or maximum award amount. The deadline for submitting applications is April 30.

The Otsego County Cemetery Restoration Fund is also open for applications. This fund is interested in projects supporting preservation and historic renovation in small cemeteries. The fund has already awarded $14,000.00 and has another $36,000.00 available. Awards of not more than $5,000.00 each should be matched by some additional sources of funding from others. There is no application deadline, but potential applicants are required to contact CFOC in advance.
The Advocates for Springfield Fund issues grants every year to encourage activities in the Town of Springfield. Awards of up to $500.00 are available, with a total allocation of $1,500.00. The deadline for submissions is May 15.

The Greater Otego Library and Education Fund is open year-round. Created by Dennis Fowler, a long-time resident of the Town of Otego, this fund supports educational and cultural resources in the Town of Otego. The Community Foundation has allocated up to $12,000.00 for 2024 awards, with a maximum of $2,000.00 for any one award.

Katz said of this year’s grant opportunities, “The Community Foundation’s four awards cycles reflect the various ways in which we are working to making Otsego County a better place for all of our residents.”

For further details and application instructions, visit https://cfotsego.org/funds-and-grants/ or e-mail contact@cfotsego.org.